As temperatures plummet, it is even more important to keep yourself protected when you venture outdoors. Many normally temperate regions of the country have been experiencing severe cold this winter, and that has left millions of residents ill-prepared for the sudden cold snap.
Even people who are used to living with cold may not be prepared for the extreme temperatures that have been a hallmark of this winter. Even if you only plan to be outside for a few minutes, you need to watch out for the early warning signs of frostbite.
Know the Early Warning Signs
Frostbite can happen surprisingly quickly, especially when temperatures and wind chills fall below zero. If you notice any of these early warning signs, you need to get inside and get medical help as soon as possible.
Protecting Yourself from Frostbite
Whether you are snow blowing or shoveling your driveway or just heading to the mailbox, you need to protect yourself from the extreme cold temperatures. Keeping yourself safe from frostbite means:
Get Help Right Away
You should call your doctor even if you just suspect you might have frostbite. Getting prompt treatment is the best way to prevent long-term damage. When treated promptly, frostbite is very treatable. If you delay treatment, you could be looking at serious skin damage or worse.